Cryptocurrency dealings of Iran, banned

Central bank of Iran banned cryptocurrency dealings, including Bitcoin, because of money-laundering concerns.

“Banks and credit institutions and currency exchanges should avoid any sale or purchase of these currencies or taking any action to promote them,” state news agency IRNA said, quoting a central bank circular based on a ban on cryptocurrencies passed by Iran’s anti-money laundering body in December.

Iran made a move to formally unify its open market exchange rate because its currency plunged an all-time low on possible return of crippling sanctions.